Embracing Fat Liberation and Creative Joy: An Interview with Mermaid Ché Monique
In this episode of the Fat Positive Everything podcast, host Kayla Stansberry, a licensed clinical professional counselor, welcomes Ché Monique, an African American, mid-to-large fat, professional mermaid. Ché shares her body journey, from childhood experiences with weight and body image to embracing her full self through activities like belly dancing, burlesque, and ultimately becoming a professional mermaid. The conversation delves into themes of fat liberation, intersectionality, finding joy in creative pursuits, and the challenges of monetizing a niche hobby like mermaiding. Ché Monique also offers advice on how to connect with the mermaid community and live authentically. The episode highlights the importance of representation and the liberating power of imagination.
00:00 Introduction to the Fat Positive Everything Podcast
00:30 Meet Our Guest: Ché Monique
02:07 Che Monique's Body Journey
10:01 Embracing the Mermaid Identity
21:19 Finding Your Mermaid Community
21:45 Living Unapologetically
23:01 A Day in the Life of a Fat Mermaid
23:52 Balancing Multiple Roles
29:02 Challenges of Monetizing Mermaiding
34:03 The Cost of Being a Mermaid
36:37 Embracing Joy and Authenticity
38:05 Where to Find Mermaid Cham Monique
40:31 Final Thoughts and Encouragement
